Desjardins distributes new travel insurance directly

Desjardins Insurance has launched a renewable travel insurance product that it will distribute through its call centre exclusively. Dubbed QUATTRA, this product stands out because insurance applicants answer a medical questionnaire that stays valid for four years. It targets the population of “snowbirds” ages 61 to 80, who frequently travel outside the province. Duration options are 8, 15, 23, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days.“People in this segment are travelling more and more, and the four-year extension lets them ease their stress about having to complete a medical questionnaire each year. They also don’t have to worry about their insurability during this period,” François Morel, business development advisor at Desjardins Insurance explains. Is Desjardins throwing caution to the wind by overlooking insurability for four years? “We have accumulated solid expertise that indicates that people in this segment rarely get sick overnight. However, many may have a pre-existing condition: if their status is stable, we can insure them,” Morel explains.

Selection subtleties prompted Desjardins to distribute the product through its call centre exclusively. “People ask many questions about pre-existing illnesses. We wanted trained agents who could answer them all. For example, if someone is unsure about the stability of his medical condition, the agent will suggest that he consult his physician again,” Morel says. The policy provides coverage of up to $5 million in emergency care. Insured can choose to add protection like trip cancellation and benefits for lost or stolen baggage.